Duane worked for 23 years at Joy Mining Machinery until injuries disabled him in November of 2000. He worked construction in Southeast Texas prior to this.

Duane served in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1969, with service in Vietnam. For his service he was awarded, along with the regular service awards, one Bronze Star, two Air Medals and Aircraft Crewman’s wings while serving in Psychological Warfare. He served on a battalion helicopter psychological operations team and had nearly 150 combat missions. Duane was later attached to the 11th Armored Calvary as PsyOps Field Team member. His duties were getting people in remote villages to support their government and our troops and quit helping enemy troops. He also worked at getting enemy soldiers to surrender. Later, Duane also served with 3rd Brigade, 1st Air Calvary.

During the 1980s, Duane helped start and was later President of the local Vietnam Veterans of America Thomas-Clinton Chapter 182 that was located in Mount Vernon. He was also the Founder of the 4th Psychological Operations Group “Mindbenders” Reunion Association. Duane took great pride in serving God and country.

Duane is survived by his brother, Wendall Yaeger and wife, Jan of Mount Vernon; nieces and nephews, Amy Yaeger, Stacy Gilbert and husband, Jimmy, and Michael Yaeger and wife, Alicia; and many special friends.

Duane proudly served his country in the United States Army in Vietnam from 1968-1969. He was a member of West Side Missionary Baptist Church. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Graveside Service will be held Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 10:00 am at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon with Reverend Don Evans officiating. Full Military Honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #141. Interment will follow. Memorials may be made in Duane’s honor to West Side Missionary Baptist Church.